Thursday, January 31, 2013

Maternity and Nursing Bra Guide from 12 years of experience

A Maternity and Nursing Bra Guide from 12 years of experience

Congratulations, welcome to the world of motherhood, take care of yourself -- it is as important as taking care of your baby - they need you to be well! Whether this is your first baby or your sixth baby, it is unique each time. Our bodies change with each stage of pregnancy, even more reason for added help when finding the right size: a maternity bra, nursing bra or maternity clothing.

Properly fitting bras are especially important for your pregnant and nursing comfort.

8 out of 10 women wear the wrong size bra because it is not easy to know and most stores do not stock a full range of sizes. This is even more true when your body is changing and growing - when you are expecting or breastfeeding your little one!!

We make the best bras, with comfort, support, flexibility and style all sculpted into a beautiful garment for you. Your safety, health and care at the forefront of our developments.

Bella Materna bras are built to last, even guaranteed, many moms report our bras are the most practical because they last; not only from pregnancy through nursing, but for the little sisters and brothers that follow. ( No, that cheapo bra will not last, and you will spend more on several cheap ones, than a few high quality ones -- think of bras like tires...very important to get you to your destination.)

3-4 months pregnant = pre-pregnancy band with extender + increase cup 1 size (generally)We recommend getting a new bra when you are pregnant and cannot fit into your pre-pregnancy bras (about 3-4 months). Your breast size will out-grow this bra by the end of pregnancy! But do not fear, you will get back to this size again when your cute little baby starts eating solid foods (World Health Organization recommends this at 6 months). The extender is very important and allows room for your rib cage to grow. Ideally when new this bra will be on the 3rd hook of a 6 hook & eye closure at the back of a bra. You will need the next 3 hook settings, as your rib cage expands. The growing baby pushes your organs up toward your breasts, which is what makes the rib cage expand, so after delivery the ribs decrease again.Ideally this bra has breastfeeding access, so you can wear it again when your breasts have decreased back to this size at solids. This enables you to get the most wear out of a bra, and the most for your money.

6-8 months pregnant = pre-pregnancy band with extender + increase cup 2 size (generally)Then you will need to increase your bra size again near the last few months before the baby is born. Since the baby belly is getting big, you will really want to focus on comfort and support. This bra should be flexible enough to fit throughout the end of maternity, and also the first several months of breastfeeding (until your baby starts solids). When your milk comes in (a few days after delivery - give or take a few days -- everyone's body is unique), you will increase again in size, usually this is temporary until your body has settled into the rhythm of breastfeeding. Be sure to have a flexible but supportive bra to fit this range of needs. The Anytime Bralet is the ideal bra for its flexibility, comfort and support.This bra should have breastfeeding access, so you can wear it when the baby is born. Then you are not buying a bra for the short term.Finding your Maternity Bra & Nursing Bra Size – get out the tape measure and put on the best fitting bra you have! Keep in mind, a proper fitting bra will hold the fullest part of your breast mid-way between your elbow and shoulder, when looking at your profile. The band should not ride up in the back either, as this makes the front less supportive. A good fitting bra will lift you and reveal that high waistline, this helps reveal your feminine beautiful shape.Band Size - the foundation: First, measure under your breasts; parallel to the floor from the front to back, hold it firmly not loose. Then, review our size chart for your band size, keep in mind what your pre-pregnancy size. The extender will add 2 1/2" (about 6cm) in extra length, hopefully this measure matches in the range of your pre-pregnancy size.

In our 12 years of experience, it is best to purchase your pre-pregnancy band size and wear it with an extender if one is not already sewn on. This is because after delivery, your rib cage will decrease back quickly (especially because breastfeeding helps burn calories). The ability to have a firm fitting band will support your breasts better than a loose band that rides up.My usual metaphor for a loose band is a dump truck, if the band rides up, it dumps the front!

Cup Size - the house: Most women increase 2 cup sizes by the end of pregnancy. i.e. If you were a 34D pre-pregnancy we recommend a 34F with an extender. (yes F means Fantastic! Do not be afraid of larger cup sizes - these are not test scores!!) Measure over the fullest part of your bust. Keep in mind, a proper fitting bra will place the fullest part mid-way between your elbow and shoulder. If your bra does not fit well, this measurement will be smaller than it should be, and you might buy too small of a cup size. Compare this measure according to your matching band size.

Bella Materna Bra Guide:
Anytime Collection - this is suited to flex and be comfortable, it is designed to be worn day or night, while you are expecting or you are nursing. Heck, my mom loves this bra and she is a grandma!

T-Shirt Bras - these bras are for looking your best out and about, while they certainly should be comfortable and supportive they are a firmer fit and will elevate you the best - always try them on with a shirt! These are best for getting showing your under-bust and waistline, your feminine shape is beautiful show your curves. Feel free to call us to chat about what you need.

Sexy Bras - these bras are the secret beneath it all. Especially in this time when everything is changing it is great to feel confident and know that you are doing the important work of motherhood! Honestly, this kept my spirits up when I needed it most, and fueled me to love the body I am in. Of course, your partner will be happy because you are happy!

Loungewear - in your new body you will need new pieces to fit your changing needs and shape. Our collection is designed for while expecting and has functionality to meet your needs through nursing.
Feel free to contact us, we are here for you!!
Order@BellaMaterna.com or Toll Free 1-888-700-8438 M-F 9am 5pm PST